Telematics, also known as smart box or black box insurance policies, are a great way for young drivers to get cheaper first time driver cover for their cars.

Block box policies help insurance companies determine the premium on how you drive as an individual rather than going by how your peer group drives. Young drivers who consistently drive safely and always abiding the speed limits etc can benefit from discounts and look at getting cheaper insurance.

But unfortunately there is a lot of myths and misconceptions about what would happen if you get a black box installed in your car, so here we will help you debunk some common myths:

• Will I Need To Get The Black Box Fitted By An Engineer? :

The black box fits easily inside of your windscreen, which you can easily do yourself. There is no need for expert knowledge as there is clear instructions of how and where to position it.

• Once Its Fitted Will My Telematics Data Be Shared? :

Your telematics data will remain confidential between you and your insurer. Strict data protection laws prohibit car insurance providers from sharing information gathered about your driving with third parties, including rival insurers or any other companies. They also won’t hand over detail about your driving to the police unless they’re required to do so by law, such as if a police inquiry is launched following a serious crime or traffic accident.

• • If I Break The Speed Limit Will The Police Be Alerted? :

If you do break the speed limit you will receive negative driving scores which may consequentially impact on the cost of your next premium, but the police will definitely not be informed. If the police require that information they  must request it officially and back up there claim with a warrant type document. In extreme cases of speeding with black box insurance, where your speed is considered to be dangerous, insurers will usually get in touch to let you know that your speed is unacceptable

• Does The Black Box Listen In On Conversations? :

The black box can hear you in your car if you press the claim notification button, but they will only want to listen into the car if you are in trouble or to help guide you through an accident scenario.

• The Black Box Policy Will Prohibit Me? :

Some black box policies do put a curfew on night-time driving and a limit on your mileage. However there are some black box polices who do not, Adrian Flux black box doesn’t limit night time driving as he recognizes that some people need to drive at night for work etc.

• If I Drive Fast Or Brake Aggressively Will My Premium Go Up? :

You won’t be penalised for one-off examples of poor driving but if you show a consistent record of it your renewal premium will rise, but on the other hand if you consistently drive safely on your record your premium will fall.

Frank at Britannia says: Black boxes are a great way for young drivers to save money on there insurance providing they drive safely and stick to the rules.

There are many faults that could cause you to fail your practical driving test, but being aware of the top 10 most common reasons for failing will give you a fighting chance to pass and reach your goal of obtaining that driving license!

1. Observation At Junctions :

Instead of fixing your eyes directly in front of you practice ‘eye scanning’ making sure to look in al your mirrors and all around you. Observing other road users especially at junctions paying attention to who has the right of way then you can wait for an appropriate moment to pull into a gap safely.

2. Mirrors :

Following on from number 1, ‘eye scanning’ can come into play for this one to. You need to be aware of whats going on all around you, especially before changing direction. Checking all your mirrors and always make sure you are checking your blind spot before making any change of direction. Not checking your blind spot during a critical time is game over and instant fail!

3. Poor Steering :

In order to pass your driving test steering should be second nature to you and come naturally and at ease, if its not take extra lessons before your test and concentrate on this. The push pull method is the best under most circumstances, but the most crucial thing is to remain in control of the car’s direction at all times.

4. Turning Right At Junctions :

Always remember your mirror, signal, position, speed and look (MSPSL). Wait at junctions so you can judge the speed of oncoming traffic and only make the turn once you are completely sure it is 100% safe to do so.

5. Failing To Respond To Road Signs :

Again ‘eye scanning’ is used for this one, making sure to be constantly on the look out for road signs and understanding the information and acting upon it appropriately. Refer back to your theory knowledge when dealing with road signs.

6. Reverse Parking :

Reverse parking requires accuracy and control, so take your time and make sure you are checking for pedestrians and the cars around you to park safely and adequately.

7. Failing To Move Off Safely :

Refer back to number 4, using thee MSPSL enhances your chances of pulling away safely and also makes other road users aware of your intentions.

8 . Poor Positioning :

Staying within your lane unless you are changing lanes or pulling out to over takes. Don’t let the car wander towards the lane markings, always be cautious when over taking a cyclist and leave a cars width of space.

9 . Failing To Move Off Under Control :

Keeping the car under control at all times is crucial. Practice pulling away smoothly whilst gently accelerating making sure to observe the speed limit at all times, as going over the speed limit is an instant fail.

10 . Responding To Traffic Lights :

Be aware of traffic lights, slow down when you approach them watching the lights and be ready for them to change. Be ready when they turn amber but don’t move until they are green.

Kerry at Britannia said :

Always do your research regarding common test faults and listen to your instructor for any tips or advice, always voice any concerns or weaknesses you fell you may have. Make sure to book in lessons leading up to your test to enhance your chances of passing.

Crossing the line could now potentially cost you a fortune, There has been recent news reports of a driver being fined £100 when his bumper overhung a parking space even though his wheels are well inside the spot. So it begs the question .. do you really know the highway code? The highway code has been updated in recent years and most recently January 22. So here are some of the changes:

• Think inside the box – Stopping your vehicle beyond the white line of the box intended for cyclists could leave you with a £100 fine plus three penalty points.
• Improper use of the horn – honking your horn unless in an emergency could come with a £1000 fine, Drivers should also not use the horn between 11.30-7am in residential areas
• Keep it clean – Your number plate should be squeaky clean so it readable in order to be read by Automatic number plate recognition – ANPR – devices. The maximum fine is £1000.

• Traffic facing – One of the least known laws of the road is that you should facing the oncoming traffic unless in a recognised parking space at night because other users won’t be able to see your rear reflectors.
• Don’t be a flasher – Flashing your lights to let another driver out or say thank you but you risk a £1,000 fine, as it should only be done to let other road users know you are there.
• No pavement parking – Inside London parking on the pavement could park you with a £70 fine, outside the capital states you “should” not do it rather than “must” not.
• Keeping mum – Kids under 12 or 4ft 4in in height must use a car seat, the penalty can reach up to £500.
• Seeing clear – Your windscreen must be clear, not wiping off snow could lead you snowed under with a £100 fine.